Client Story -
A Ma Chicken Rice
From Home Kitchen to Heartfelt Dining: A Ma Chicken Rice’s Journey of Flavor and Family
A Ma Chicken Rice, a Southeast Asian, Immigrant and Family business was born from a passion for bringing comforting, authentic flavors to the community. As home cooks with deep roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, the owner and their family wanted to share the dishes that shaped their childhood—starting with Hainanese chicken rice and Kuy Teav. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Cambodia and beyond, they set out to create their own version of these beloved classics. From cooking at home to renovating their own restaurant space, every step has been built with love, determination, and a dream to bring people together over a simple yet flavorful meal.
Overcoming Challenges with Heart: The Resilient Journey of A Ma Chicken Rice
Starting A Ma Chicken Rice came with its fair share of obstacles. One of the biggest challenges was capital — they had to be strategic with every dollar, handling much of the renovation and setup themselves. With no prior restaurant experience in the U.S., they learned everything from scratch, making mistakes and adjusting along the way. Navigating health and business regulations was another hurdle, as ensuring compliance while maintaining the quality and authenticity of their food required extra effort. Despite these challenges, their passion and the support of the community have kept them pushing forward.
How CACCWA Empowered A Ma Chicken Rice to Thrive
The owner stated: “Through the CACCWA email newsletter, I learned about their Small Business Resource Network (SBRN) program. When I reached out to the SBRN team to share news of our exciting new venture, they connected with us shortly after our opening to discuss grant opportunities. Their team guided us step-by-step through the application process, helping us secure critical funding. This support allowed us to:
- Expand operations to dinner service by purchasing additional equipment,
- Increase sales through extended hours,
- Pay down construction-related debts, and
- Grow our business by investing in digital marketing campaigns.
- The grant truly empowered us to strengthen both our operations and community presence.”
Business Quote for CACCWA: “CACCWA has done an amazing job helping minorities to fulfil their dream of operating business. The workshops allow business owners to gain knowledge and be aware of the regulations.”
A Taste Without Borders: Growing A Ma Chicken Rice’s Vision of Heritage and Hospitality
Our vision extends beyond just one location. As we continue to grow, we aim to expand to new areas and share our unique take on Hainanese chicken rice and Cambodian flavors with more communities. Alongside expansion, we’re committed to strengthening our brand — ensuring that every dish, every experience, and every detail reflects our passion for quality, tradition, and hospitality.